Under gray skies and with cloudless optimism, Ole's Cross Country Center in Warren officially opened for business for the season on Wednesday, November 15. No, there was no freak storm that dumped enough snow on the 45-km trail network to enable skiing. For the time being, the shop will be open for sales and service from noon to 4 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends. But as soon as there is snow for skiing, regular 9 to 5 hours will go into effect.

Fingers are crossed for snow to come soon, and although most of last season was forgettable, it is worth remembering that there was excellent Thanksgiving skiing last year. Thanks to the abundant grassy ground that is the subsurface for much of Ole's trail network, 10km or more of skiing can be possible with just a few inches of snow on bare Mother Earth.

A few new offerings will be featured this winter. Skiers interested in intensive one-on-one instruction can take part in a new, private coaching program to accelerate the learning curve. Ole's will also offer a multiple-use wax card for those who don't like the bother and mess of waxing their own skis. Free Saturday time trials for all ages and abilities and free Sunday skate clinics will continue to be part of the weekend program.

The Bill Koch League, for kids 6 to 13, will be back this year, under the new stewardship of Kate Williams. Sign-up and equipment fitting will be at Ole's this Saturday, November 18, at 11 a.m.

Pre-season rates for season passes will remain in effect until December 15. For more information on passes, events and programs, go to olesxc.com or call 496-3430.